How to Eat Like a Local

By Maria Argüello

Rijsttafel at Bali Cafe

With the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival upon us, the city will soon be brimming with tourists hungry for a taste of Miami’s savory, sweet and spicy offerings. But what about the smaller, less obvious eateries—the hidden gems that serve mouthwatering specialties better than your abuela could make? No worries, we’ve laid out a cornucopia of delights.

QUICK TRIPS

Bali CafeCuisine: IndonesianWhat you’ll eat: Noodles and curriesKnown for: Attracting an Indonesian and Filipino population from the visiting cruise shipsCost: $10 to $20 per personIdeal meal: Jasmine iced tea and rijsttafel (a variety of Indonesian dishes ideal for first timers)Why it’s still under wraps: It’s behind a virtually hidden storefront in the NoBri district109 NE Second Ave., Miami, 305-358-5751

Fratelli MilanoCuisine: ItalianWhat you’ll eat: Food that’ll remind you of a traditional trattoria in MilanKnown for: Hearty Italian fare, great hospitality and unbelievably low pricesWhat you should know before you go: The space is small, so make reservations, go early or be patient. It’s worth the waitCost: $15 to $25 per personIdeal meal: Fiocchi di pera e Taleggio (pasta stuffed with pear and Taleggio cheese) and tiramisuWhy it’s still under wraps: It’s located amid downtown’s newly developing residential scene213 SE First St., 305-373-2300, Miami; ristorantefratellimilano.com

The Alibi Cuisine: Americana between two slices of breadWhat you’ll eat: Comfort foodKnown for: Hours until 5 AM and some of the best classic sandwiches in townWhat you should know before you go: It’s hidden inside Lost Weekend, a large bar in the middle of South BeachCost: $10 per personIdeal meal: Philly cheese steak, shrimp po-boy or Southern Star (pulled pork) sandwich with a side of fries topped with sea salt and Cheez WhizWhy it’s still under wraps: Few would expect a Culinary Institute of America trained chef inside a bar serving up sumptuous guilty pleasures until dawn218 Espanola Way, Miami Beach, 305-674-3448; alibi.me